Procreate

Procreate’s powerful mask options provide a way to non-destructively edit a single (or multiple) layers in a given document. Designers and illustrators alike use masks to bring in texture, shadows, highlights, patterns, images, and more. There are three mask options to choose from in the Procreate application: Alpha Lock, Mask, and Clipping Mask. While the names may appear similar, each mask option has its own unique functions. Mockup via blackzheep. To bring up the mask commands, click on the layer’s thumbnail and choose from the three in the dropdown menu. Here’s a rundown of each mask option’s capabilities: Alpha Lock : This command is conveyed by a gray checkerboard grid, like seen above in the highlighted layer. Alpha Lock gives you the ability to draw within that layer’s shape; this command is ideal for drawing within the shape’s boundaries. While many rely on the Alpha Lock command to apply textures, shadows, and highlights, Alpha Lock is extremely useful to quickly change the l...